Roberto’s QZ app proves that virtual shifting is feasible and accessible without requiring exclusive deals or expensive hardware upgrades. Zwift could have taken a similar approach, but instead, it seems they’ve chosen to prioritize exclusivity and profits, leaving users with fewer options unless they invest in specific equipment or firmware updates.
The real business nonsense here is that if virtual shifting were Zwift software-based, Zwift could have sold 10x more Zwift Play controllers and Clicks. By limiting functionality instead of embracing innovation, they’re leaving revenue on the table while frustrating their user base.
I’ve been testing/using @Roberto_Viola’s Qz App Virtual Shifting with my Kickr v5 via Direct Connect, and I’m absolutely blown away by how well it works (not affecting the reliability of my previous setup). I initially expected it to require a lot of tinkering, be unreliable, or feel like some clunky workaround. But to my surprise, I just connected my Kickr v5, and now I’m seamlessly virtual shifting. It’s been incredibly effective for fine-tuning my cadence and power output—something I’ve been chasing for what feels like forever!
The experience has been so good that I went ahead and ordered a Zwift Play to free up my iPhone (even though I wonder whether Zwift deserve my money ). Honestly, it’s not even essential for this setup, but everything is running so smoothly that it feels worth it. Funny enough, I only gave this a shot because @Paul_Southworth recommended it -and a $5 bet during the off-season, it seemed like a no-brainer. Now I’m seriously kicking myself for not starting long ago!
It works with anything—that’s the beauty I am using it with Kickr v5 and Zwift Play. Btw, I wish I have bought the click vs play… too many buttons I don’t need.
That’s my scenario with a KickR V5, I don’t need the play controllers as I already have Sterzo steering, the click is much more compact and would better suite me if I opted for this shifting route
Hi, what’s your exact settings in the QZ App? Im using the latest beta version for Android (2.18.9, even tried the latest nightly 2.18.11), but simply can’t get virtual shifting to work with my Kickr v5 in combination with my Zwift Ride controllers and Zwift running on my Win10 PC with Asus BT500 dongle. I am already in contact with the App developer Roberto who recommended different settings which unfortunately did not help.
I connect the devices exactly as shown in the video “Zwift Virtual Gearing for all the trainers” on Roberto Viola’s YouTube channel. My gear changes through the Ride controllers are visible in Zwift, but the v5 does not change the resistance.
By the way, I’m not an expert with the app—just learning! I’m using the iOS version that I downloaded from the Apple Store.
I linked my Zwift account to the app (though I’m not sure if it serves any purpose for how I’ve been using the Qz app so far).
I paired my Kickr to the app using the Wizard, btw, I can see “all” my devices listed there.
In Zwift, I paired my Kickr via BLE (Qz) or Direct Connect (Kickr 0000 33).
and the resistance on the Kickr changes as I adjust gears using the big buttons in the Qz app. I’ve completed several rides this way, and it works great!
Recently, I got the Zwift Play controllers and paired them with the app as well. Now, I can change gears using Zwift Play, which is a nice addition.
Some caveats:
I haven’t spent enough time with the Zwift Play to fully figure everything out yet, but it seems I can’t pair the Zwift Play controllers to both Zwift and the QZ app simultaneously, I am planning on contacting Roberto past Xmas about it.
Sorry for brining this one back to life - but I figure it’s only a couple of weeks old and very relevant for my situation!
I’m a Kickr V5 owner - one of those people who are pretty hacked off at Wahoo for not bringing Zwift Cog support to my trainer! I decided I really wanted a Zwift Ride frame - as it would be better for my setup and save me using my old Stumpjumper. In December, I pre-ordered a JetBlack Victory after all the glowing reviews… and I planned to order a Zwift Ride frame when I got it.
I’m very impatient, and had a bit of extra cash this month… so have ordered the Zwift Ride frame already - which is due to be delivered on Monday. I’ve only recently read that QZ can potentially solve my issue - without the need for a new trainer. Truth be told, I want the Victory anyway, as my ANT+ and Bluetooth connections often drop out mid ride, so WiFi would be welcome… and I’m avoiding Wahoo products from now on.
Hopefully with QZ, I can get the Zwift Ride virtual shifting to work with the Kickr V5 - which will keep me going for the 6 weeks until the Victory arrives (or maybe even longer if there are delays).
What I wondered, is whether there is some sort of setup guide to get this working? I use Zwift on a PC rather than an iPad / Apple TV. Is the setup process the same?
Are there any disadvantages to this setup - other than having to use my phone as a ‘bridge’ for the duration of my ride (hardly a hardship!).
Given the WiFi issues with the Victory, which they are steadily working on with regular firmware updates, if I were in your situation I would delay that purchase to see how it turns out. It’s quite possible they will get to a good place but right now every Victory owner is a beta tester.
Zwift Play Controllers are connected through the cell. phone with the QZ app - not through the Zwift? Is it Correct? And QZ is managing the Zwift Play Controllers?
Or there is a dual connection from QZ App to Zwift Play Controllers and in the same time from Zwift? I mean beside the virtual shifting through the QZ App, will it be possible to use other Zwift Play controllers buttons inside the Zwift (Ride On Bomb and other…)?
Oh - I didn’t realise that. The reviews of the Victory I’ve seen were all so positive! “All the features of a high end trainer for only £399”. I’ve still got 6 weeks to go, so can make a decision nearer the time.
It’s too soon to say if it’s good or not, but it is a cheap trainer and you have a high end trainer, so with the exception of some features the Kickr V5 is better hardware. If it’s practical to run an Ethernet cable to your trainer and use the Wahoo Direct Connect adapter, that would address one of those deficiencies.
You can connect the Zwift Play directly to Zwift, just like with the Kickr V6, or alternatively, connect it to the QZ App. Currently, I have the Zwift Play connected to Zwift. The app adjusts resistance dynamically based on a virtual chainring and cassette setup on the Qz App. As shown in the screenshot below, it even displays the Gear no. in Zwift, replicating the experience of using the Kickr V6.
Zwift Play works seamlessly with all its features, just as it was designed to.
Note: If you’re using an iPhone, be sure to get the latest beta version from Roberto, as the one in the App Store is outdated.
Wow - that’s some read! I started off reading every post, then started skimming, and then jumped to the last weeks worth!
Sounds more than just the WiFi connectivity issue plaguing the Victory… but it does seem like they are addressing and resolving the issues.
Will keep an eye on the thread over the next few weeks and then make a decision. Part of me was expecting a Kickr V7 to drop any time soon…
I run Zwift on Windows 10 with a Kickr V5 using a wired Direct Connect, Zwift Play, and the Qz app, and I’m really happy with the results. In fact, there are a few things Qz does better than Wahoo’s implementation:
You have full control over the virtual chainring and virtual cassettes, so you can configure them exactly how you like.
You’re not limited to Bluetooth for connecting the Kickr—I use Direct Connect for the Kickr and Bluetooth only for Zwift Play.
The only challenge I’ve encountered with Virtual Shifting (not just with Qz) is that during workouts that include “free ride” segments, shifting in and out of ERG mode doesn’t always work smoothly. That said, I don’t care for virtual shifting during a workout, so I don’t turn on Qz, and I still have full access to Zwift Play.
@Peter_Rattray Actually, I was looking forward to upgrading my V5 to the V7, hoping it would eliminate the Bluetooth limitation for Virtual Shifting/Zwift Play. But now, I’m more than happy with my setup! I just hope my Kickr keeps kicking for a while—haha, I do put a lot of miles on it each year!
). Honestly, it’s not even essential for this setup, but everything is running so smoothly that it feels worth it. Funny enough, I only gave this a shot because 
I’m using the iOS version that I downloaded from the Apple Store.